For bibliophiles and lovers of early colonial buildings

Listed as a Category II historic building by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, this historically significant building was Akaroa's Library for 114 years (1875 -1989). It was designed free of charge by Christchurch architect Samuel Farr, a former Akaroa Resident. The building was originally a typically ebullient, albeit small scale, mid-Victorian, public building.

In 1911- 1912 the building was repaired and remodelled to commemorate the Coronation of King George V. It was given a fashionable Arts and Crafts makeover, including Marseilles tiles, casement windows, timber shingles and cusped brackets.   

The building has high contextual significance in a street of important, listed Akaroa buildings, including the Gaiety Theatre next door (1878) and other heritage dwellings.

The building is looked after by a Charitable Trust, in conjunction with Christchurch City Council. Volunteers open the premises for visitors to enjoy the enchantment of what is a largely untouched interior.  

Various activities and displays, including digital images of old Akaroa, enhance the visitor experience. Books originally purchased by the earliest committees are available for reference along with New Zealand and specialist interest titles.

Image: Akaroa Library c.1975, Akaroa Museum.